Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it. –William Arthur Ward
When you’re a toddler, you learn to say “please,” and the appropriate time to say, “thank you” and even, “excuse me.” When you entered the classroom, you were expected to always follow the class rules and use nice words without being told to do so. And if your parents are anything like my parents, you were constantly reminded what to say when someone gives you a compliment or does something nice for you.
As we get older, life happens. You’re busy at work with deadlines. That final thesis is less than desirable. You’re shuffling kids back and forth between school, games and other commitments. Feeling appreciated motivates us to do more, both in our personal and professional lives. But if you think about it, in the midst of all of the daily chaos, many would say that we don’t express or receive acts of gratitude as often as we should.
Anyone who receives a genuine thank you knows and appreciates what it means. For a great reminder to be thankful for each day you are given as a military spouse, click here.
Thanksgiving is just around the corner and for many it’s a time for giving thanks. It’s a time to reflect on what you’ve been given, and a time to be grateful for those who are in your life and all that you’ve accomplished. The holiday season, usually, bring us closer to the people who are near and dear to our heart. Sometimes being close reminds us how much we love and miss each other. Other times it reminds us that we can drive each other a little crazy, with good intentions of course. But you should never have to question if you’re appreciated or appreciate others, right?
One of the most memorable phrases you can say to a person is “thank you.” It’s sort of like saying sorry. Sure they’re just words, but words that show your appreciation for someone else’s good deed. It’s a form of respect for someone who may have gone out of his or her way to assist you. It signals you do not take them for granted and acknowledges that they matter to you.
Anyone who receives a genuine thank you knows and appreciates what it means. Saying thank you and expressing gratitude shouldn’t be reserved just for the holiday season. Showing gratitude is season-less. Make time to say thank you for all of the little things and many blessings in life and business. Thank a soldier. Thank a teacher. Thank your neighbor. Thank a waitress. Take note and acknowledge the random acts of kindness around you and say thanks. After all, saying thank you doesn’t cost you a thing.